Huma Bird (Bird of Paradise) Looted from the Tipu Sultan's Throne

This beautiful bird was an element of the Tipu Sultan’s throne, part of the looted treasure, obtained during the ransack of his Seringapatam palace in Mysore by the East India Company British forces.

⠀

Image: Huma Bird, Bird of Paradise, 1787-91, topaz, tiger's eye, moonstone, garnet, gold, rubies, emeralds, diamonds, pearls, silver gilt; 42 x 20 x 28 cm (whole object), Royal Collection Trust